Axle Power Distribution for a Front-Wheel Assist Tractor

ABSTRACT A tractor equipped with a mechanical front-wheel assist was performance tested in the two- and four-wheel drive modes. Total tractor mass and static ballast distribution was identical when comparing performance differences between the two drive modes. Power demand for drawbar pull, slip and motion resistance of a mechanical front wheel drive tractor operated in the two- and four-wheel drive mode were compared on a wheat stubble field before and after plowing. The front-wheel assist tractor operated in the four-wheel drive mode had lower slip and motion resistance losses and higher drawbar pull than when operated in the two wheel drive mode.